There was a time when someone remarked that I “didn’t seem like someone” who required SNAP benefits for grocery assistance. I was genuinely taken aback. What does being financially needy even look like? Regardless of my appearance or how others perceive it, I rely on these benefits to ensure my family has enough food.
There’s a pervasive myth that those who receive government assistance must visibly appear to fit a certain stereotype. What does that entail? Are we expected to shop for groceries in worn-out clothing or project an aura of despair to validate our need for help?
In reality, qualifying for government aid requires meeting specific criteria, meaning many SNAP recipients look, well, just like everyone else. We wear everyday clothes, drive common cars, and use smartphones, whether it’s an iPhone or, like mine, an Android.
Just because someone has styled hair or carries a designer bag doesn’t indicate their financial situation. Driving a newer car doesn’t guarantee financial stability, and having the latest smartphone doesn’t equate to wealth. In today’s world, these items are often necessities.
When people see someone using SNAP benefits while holding a smartphone, they often jump to conclusions about how that individual can afford it or why they need assistance. What they fail to understand is that the phone might have been purchased refurbished, is being paid off in installments, or could have even been a gift. Regardless of how it was obtained, possessing a smartphone doesn’t lessen the need for assistance, especially in an era where not having one can cut off access to jobs and vital information.
As a full-time working single mother, having internet access on my phone is crucial. My boss might need to reach me urgently while I’m picking up my son from school. On days without school, I often work from a picnic table while he plays nearby. I must stay reachable for work events and emergencies.
A phone is essential for parents today. Most school communications are done electronically, often through apps. My son’s school utilizes one app for general announcements, while his teacher uses another to keep parents informed. Without a smartphone, I could easily miss important updates.
It’s crucial to remember that SNAP—Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program—is just that: a supplement. It helps cover the gap. Many families receiving SNAP need this assistance because their income isn’t sufficient to afford a month’s worth of groceries. Each household’s benefits are calculated based on their income, and the notion of “abusing the system” is largely unfounded. In fact, the Agriculture Department states that SNAP has one of the lowest fraud rates among federal programs—only about 1% of benefits are illegally sold for cash. Furthermore, research has shown that every dollar spent on SNAP generates approximately $1.70 in economic activity, surpassing benefits from tax cuts or increased defense spending.
As a single mother, I manage to support myself and my son in a studio apartment while living within my means. However, groceries can be quite costly, especially with a growing child who devours fresh fruit weekly. When we first started living independently, SNAP was an immense help, allowing me to focus less on food costs and more on ensuring my son eats healthily.
Still, using SNAP comes with its own stigma. The card is quite noticeable, and I often feel self-conscious swiping it at the grocery store, especially when there’s a line of shoppers behind me. While my clothes are not particularly extravagant, I like to look presentable, which likely leads others to wonder why I’m using a SNAP card in the first place.
It’s essential to recognize that outward appearance doesn’t reflect financial status. Most people wear the same pair of jeans for years or buy clothes on sale. The last time I paid full price for an item of clothing? I can’t even remember. But that’s not your business.
Those who pass judgment on SNAP recipients often forget that many families are living paycheck to paycheck. Government assistance can relieve some pressure on tight budgets, and many use it temporarily during tough times. That nice car you see? It might be several years old, and repairs could lead to tough choices between rent and maintenance. They need their vehicle to earn a living, perpetuating a cycle that’s hard to escape.
So, if you see someone tucking their SNAP card into a stylish purse, pause before making assumptions. Judging someone’s financial need based on appearances is misguided. Not everyone who receives assistance looks “poor,” and many working families rely on programs like SNAP to avoid falling into poverty. Material possessions like phones and cars are often necessities that enable parents to care for their children and maintain employment.
As we move into 2020, let’s focus on reducing our judgments and concentrate on our own journeys. We’re all doing our best in a world filled with challenges. If you’re interested in exploring more about this topic, check out our other blog post here.
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In summary, SNAP benefits are a vital resource for many families, regardless of their appearance or possessions. Understanding and compassion can go a long way in supporting those who are navigating financial challenges.